Rodney Peterson's interview for the Veterans History Project at Atlanta History Center

We welcome your comments on this interview at [e-mail]
Catalog number: VIS 201.0782
In this interview, Rodney Peterson recalls his experiences serving in the United States Army Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. He discusses his upbringing in New York, his high school experience, and working at his uncle's record store after graduation. He remembers getting his draft notice, liking the discipline of basic training, and the process of going through jump school. Peterson recalls his first impressions of Vietnam including seeing fire fights from above and the smell and the thickness of the air. He describes getting acclimated to war, his duties, and learning different tactical maneuvers. He details his combat experience including the operation in which he was injured and received a Purple Heart. He talks about his recovery and the experience of lying next to injured Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army soldiers in the hospital. He discusses his family and careers he held after the military.

[@juanugarteche965]

Mr. Peterson is an amazing story teller. Breathtaking interview. Thank you for sharing it and thanks to Him for his service.

[@DavidWPolk]

I’ve watched over 50 interviews. This is unquestionably, the best one I’ve heard. Thanks Rodney!

[@harlan3503]

Mr Peterson, you're a hero and a true gentleman! Thank you so much for your service and doing this interview!

[@immortaltyger1569]

Mr. Peterson, thanks for sharing your story.

[@alethamobley6688]

❤Thank You for Your Service Sir!

[@joycecogdill9797]

Thank you for sharing your story!! It was riveting!!! I certainly hope you healed well with no recurring infections!! Thank you for your service and welcome home.

[@beccab7522]

Very nice man, super guy! Thank you for your service & for being a great example of how everyone should lead their life and treat people. Thank you for your interview.

[@kennethprice5628]

Welcome home brother, you served with honor, sir...72 yo Navy Veteran

[@WallySauer]

This Man’s story was really interesting to listen to. Thank you for sharing your stories and thank you for your service God Bless you and your family

[@davelane4055]

WHOOAH US army catholic

[@Buce-ku9vx]

What a great journey from a good troop. Too bad the interviewer is brain dead. Asks no questions about dates, times, movements etc. The worst ! Good on you Mr Peterson. Thanks.